FCC Approves Amazon Leo Acquisition of Globalstar for $11.5 Billion

The Federal Communications Commission approved Amazon Leo's $11.5 billion acquisition of Globalstar on Tuesday. The deal enables Amazon's satellite division to integrate Globalstar's mobile-satellite spectrum and two dozen satellites into its own infrastructure. This acquisition supports Amazon's objective to deploy 3,200 satellites by 2029 and launch commercial services by the end of 2026, positioning the company to compete with SpaceX's Starlink in the direct-to-device connectivity market.

As part of the transaction, Amazon will acquire the 20 percent equity stake in Globalstar held by Apple, which resulted from a $1.5 billion investment in 2024. To maintain existing consumer services, Amazon signed an agreement with Apple to ensure that satellite-based safety features, including Find My and Emergency SOS, remain available for Apple Watch and iPhone users.

Brendan Carr, Chair of the FCC, stated that the approval empowers Amazon Leo to deliver next-generation satellite broadband services and increase competition to help communities stay connected across the country.